The use of improperly aged or treated manure can
increase microbial risks and contribute to
foodborne illness. The possibility that fecal matter
may come into contact with produce and that
water might splash pathogens in the manure onto
field produce are both important concerns. Pathogens
such as E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and
Campylobacter can be present in manure slurry
and soil for up to 3 months or more, depending on
temperature and soil conditions. Troubling forgrowers is the fact that Listeria monocytogenes
can survive in the soil for much longer than 3
months. Yersinia enterocolitica may survive, but
not grow, in soil for almost a year.